Four Places To Visit In Delhi

Four Places To Visit In Delhi

Ever think about visiting Delhi, the capital of India, here are some of the places to visit.

1. Red Fort

Spread over a radius of 1.2 miles, Red Fort is a Fort built by Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan in the year 1638. The name is derived from magnificent red sandstone wall enclose this mighty fort.

Every year on the Independence Day of India (15 August), the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers a nationally-broadcast speech from its ramparts.

Red Fort attracts thousands of tourists every year. The entry fee is nominal Rs 10 for Indians and Rs 250 for foreign tourists while the children under 13 Years are allowed free entry. It’s open from 9 AM to 6 PM and close on Mondays.

It is located in old city of Delhi. Once inside there are many places to look including a few shops selling ethnic Indian wears and antiques.

2. Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is another monument to visit in the old city of Delhi. Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosque in India. In spite of being a Muslim holy place, it can be visited by anyone regardless of his religion although he has to dress properly to gain entry. This mammoth structure is capable of holding 25, 000 devotees at peak hours.

The entry is free for anyone without a camera. Those with a camera have to pay a fee of Rs 300. The mosque although remains open till sunset, entry is barred during prayer times.

3. Chandni Chowk

Chandni Chowk is an old style market in old Delhi with narrow streets and old style shops selling inexpensive jewellery, fabrics, and electronics.

However, don’t dare to enter this place in a car or even a motorcycle unless you want to get seriously stuck in its lanes. The best to access this market is via cycle-rickshaw, the man driven 3 wheeler ride in India.

The birthplace of Mughlai cuisine, Chandni Chowk is also a special treat among foodies, who come from all over India in search of true Mughlai dishes like nahari, biryani etc.

4. Akshardham Temple

Akshardham Temple is a gigantic temple complex in Delhi. It funded and built by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a Swaminarayan Sanstha spiritual organization. It was opened in 2005 and showcases various colours of Indian culture.

This astounding construction of the pink stone and white marble shrine sports sprawling garden, sculptures, and boat ride for leisure.

Cell phones are not allowed inside temple complex. The entry is free for general entry. It remains open from 9.30 a.m. until 6.30 p.m., except on Mondays.

Allow plenty of time to explore it thoroughly -- at least half a day. Do note that cell phones and cameras are not permitted inside.